First-team players at Championship football side Charlton Athletic were to wear black arm-bands last night in memory of a much-loved father who died in a car accident on Sunday.
A minute’s silence will also be observed at each of the club’s academy fixtures this weekend to honour Stephen Adams, from Paddock Wood, a dedicated teacher and youth football coach.
The 34-year-old was driving in Seven Mile Lane, near Wrotham Heath, when the accident occurred at about 6.50am on December 13.
In a statement released yesterday, his family said: “Stephen will be missed forever by his wife Kimberley, his sons Luke and Finley, his mum Debbie, sister Kayleigh, father-in-law Richard, mother-in-law Frances and many family and friends who loved him very much.
“Stephen had an amazing passion for football coaching and was well respected as a teacher. Stephen will remain forever in our hearts and we will love him always.”
The 34-year-old, who joined Charlton in 2012 and coached the under-11 and under-12 sides, was a teacher of computing at The Hayesbrook School in Tonbridge.
A spokesman for the boys’ academy said: “The Hayesbrook School is deeply saddened by the death of Mr Stephen Adams.
“Mr Adams lost his life in a tragic accident over the weekend. Our thoughts, prayers and support are with Stephen’s family.
“Stephen was a dedicated teacher and a fan-tastic professional who was hugely respected. He cared deeply about students and computing and his love of sport made him a popular figure at Hayesbrook.”
Charlton academy manager Steve Avory said: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of a much-valued member of our coaching team.
“He joined us in the 2012/13 season as part of the FA’s black and Asian coaches bursary pro-gramme and in that time he became a very popu-lar member of staff.
“He will be greatly missed.”
Charlton’s first-team players were due to wear the black armbands at last night’s match against Bolton Wanderers at The Valley.
A spokesman said: “The club would like to offer their condolences to Steve’s family during this very difficult time.”
Kent Police are continuing to appeal for infor-mation about the incident, which happened near the Comp Lane junction.
Two vehicles were involved, a blue Nissan Navara and Mr Adams’ silver Ford Fiesta.
Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or who saw the vehicles before or after the incident is asked to call 01622 798538 or email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk
